Drilling Fluid: Optimise Is it possible to improve the efficiency of the drilling process and at the same time reduce costs? It can be done but takes a lot of effort on the part of the drilling contractor.  The different aspects of mud mixing include water quality, products, mixing order and adequate mixing of the products. By learning how fluid systems can improve the drilling operation we can then teach crews how to use and implement them.  All drilling fluid products will perform better in a pH range between 8 and 9. If the pH is below 7, add soda ash to raise the pH to 8 or 9 Fresh water should have a pH of 7. Test the water with pH paper. and if needed rises it. A good supply of fresh water often simplifies the selection of the drilling fluid. Clarity alone, should not be accepted in  evidence as of the purity of water, or of its suitability for mud making. testing usually serve to define water quality. Salt: Change water source if tasted. There is no chemical method to remove chlorides from water. Salt will drastically reduce the yield of bentonite and increase the water loss of the fluid. Hardness: Test with calcium indicator. Hard water will not produce lather with bar soap. In the absence of a calcium test use the bar soap test. Add soda ash until calcium test is negative and the pH is between 8 and 9. Soda ash precipitates out the calcium as insoluble calcium carbonate, making it harmless. Sulphide contaminated water will have the characteristic smell of rotten eggs. Add caustic soda to raise pH to 10. If caustic soda is not available then change water source. If you notice drastic thickening or separation of bentonite or polymer in the mixing tank, you probably have a water problem. Other factors can cause separation but water quality should be investigated first Recommending a drilling fluid system should be based on the ability of the fluid to achieve these critical functions and to minimize problems.  Initially, anticipated problems helps in selecting a particular drilling fluid system but other considerations may exist that dictate use of a different system.  The cost, availability of products and environmental factors are always important considerations. Drilling fluids almost always require tradeoffs in treating and maintaining the properties needed to accomplish the required functions.  For example, a high mud viscosity might improve hole cleaning, yet it might lower hydraulic efficiency, increase solids retention and slow the penetration rate.  Or an increased density to control formation problem Many factors and variable's need to be taken into account. Most fluid systems come under the control of service companies engines and the operator. Drilling contractor tend to stand back. when they should be more involved. It is their equipment used too mix, pump and circulate with A driller that understands fluids and knows how  to change them will have a powerful drilling tool at his disposal.